Determining compatibility of components for assembling approved personal protection configurations

ABSTRACT

This disclosure relates generally to methods and systems for determining whether at least a first component and a second component of a personal protection (PP) configuration are compatible so as to be assembled into an approved PP configuration, responsive to being compared against at least one predetermined criterion. Included is a smart tag for each of the first and second components. The first and second smart tags include respective first and second data. A data acquiring system is provided for acquiring the first and second data and a data processing system processes the acquired first and second data for determining if the first and second components are compatible to be assembled as an approved PP configuration.

BACKGROUND

This disclosure relates generally to methods and systems for determiningcompatibility of components usable together in a set of components. Moreparticularly, it relates to methods and systems for determining whetherat least a first component and at least a second component, which may becomponents of a PPE article are compatible so as to be assembled into anapproved configuration in response to being compared against at leastone predetermined criterion regarding approved PP configurations.

Maintaining the safety and health of workers is a major concern acrossmany industries. Various rules and regulations have been developed toaid in addressing this concern, which provide sets of requirements toensure proper administration of personnel health and safety procedures.To help in maintaining worker safety and health, some individuals may berequired to don, wear, carry, or otherwise use a PPE article, if theindividuals enter or remain in work environments that have hazardous orpotentially hazardous conditions.

Known types of PPE articles include, without limitation, respiratoryprotection equipment (RPE), e.g., for normal condition use or emergencyresponse; protective eyewear, such as visors, goggles, filters orshields; protective headwear, such as hard hats, hoods or helmets;hearing protection devices; protective shoes; protective gloves; otherprotective clothing, such as coveralls and aprons; protective articles,such as sensors, safety tools, detectors, global positioning devices,mining cap lamps and any other suitable gear.

There are many different kinds of RPE's utilized to prevent or reduceinhalations of contaminants, such as hazardous or toxic materials.Exemplary ones include without limitation: disposable filtering facepiece respirators, half mask respirator with filters, full facemaskrespirators with filters, powered respirators with helmet or hood, andpower assisted respirators with full facemask. RPE articles oftencomprise an assemblage of components that are to be assembled togetherinto a configuration. For example, RPE articles include, withoutlimitation, components, for example, air-purifying filters, cartridges,canisters or filters that remove specific air contaminants by passingambient air through their air-purifying element. Other types of personalprotection components usable with certain RPE's include, withoutlimitation, suitable batteries, and specific kinds of breathing hoses.

Proper use of PPE's often comprises assembling compatible articles andcomponents therefor into an approved PP configuration intended to besuitable for the risks involved in the workplace. This includesdetermining ahead of actual use, the risks arising from the workplace inorder to assist in determining an appropriate configuration. Forexample, proper use of such RPE's is contingent upon their beingassembled into an approved PP configuration with other components, suchas breathing tubes, filtering components, and batteries. The approved PPconfigurations must satisfy predetermined criteria (e.g., rules,guidelines, regulations, certifications, etc.) regarding theircompatibility relating to intended performance and use. Thepredetermined criteria may be promulgated from many different sources,including business and/or governmental sources. With more than 500,000air contaminants encountered in certain work environments, there arenumerous rules and regulations to follow and gather information about.It will be appreciated, therefore, that the process of determiningwhether the components and articles are compatible for forming anapproved PP configuration can be quite demanding and at times quiteonerous. Accordingly, companies using PPE articles have theresponsibility of ensuring that workers use approved PP configurations.If not, potentially serious and/or costly consequences may rise.

The distribution of such articles and their components must be performedin compliance with the appropriate rules, guidelines, regulations, andcertifications. Presently, government agencies or companies with largenumbers of workers and with a variety of working environments generallyhave dedicated and highly knowledgeable personnel for the distributionof such articles and components to workers to insure that theappropriate components and articles are assembled together in acompatible manner to satisfy the noted rules and regulations. Inaddition, not only must the distribution be performed in accordance withrigorous standards, there is a likelihood that the rules, regulations,etc. may themselves change, thereby placing additional burdens on thosecharged with the responsibility of distributing them in an approvedmanner.

Moreover, predetermined criteria regarding proper and safe use of PParticles are often predicated upon assumed work environment conditions,such as the kinds and concentrations of particulate in the workplace,prevailing during actual use. However, the original selectedconfigurations of components and articles based on an initial riskassessment may be in need of revision because of additional risks beingpresent during actual use. For example, some half mask respirators withfilters are unsuitable for certain contaminant vapors and may requireadditional components or additional PPE's (e.g., goggles) depending on avariety of factors. Therefore, updating selections based on updated riskassessments places additional administrative burdens on theadministrators. Moreover, it would be of substantial value to determineat which location(s) the assumptions have changed, thereby allowingcorrections to be made to the environment or the configurations.

Thus, needs exist for improved methods and systems that overcome oreliminate the drawbacks and shortcomings of known approaches fordetermining whether components forming PP articles are configured to becompatible, from the standpoint of satisfying at least a predeterminedcriterion relating to approved PP configurations.

SUMMARY

In one exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure provides a methodfor determining compatibility of first and second components for formingan approved PP configuration as determined by at least one predeterminedcriterion, the method comprising: a) providing a first component with asmart tag configured with first data; b) providing at least a secondcomponent with a smart tag configured with second data; c) acquiring thefirst and second data; and, d) determining if the first and secondcomponents are compatible to be assembled as an approved PPconfiguration by processing the first and second data in a dataprocessing system against at least one predetermined criterion regardingcompatible PP configurations.

In another exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure provides asystem for determining compatibility at least a first component and asecond component for forming an approved PP configuration as determinedby at least one predetermined criterion, the system comprising: a) atleast a first component having a smart tag configured with first data;b) at least a second component having a smart tag configured with seconddata; c) a data acquiring system for acquiring the first and seconddata; and, d) a data processing system for processing the acquired firstand second data against a predetermined criterion for determining if thefirst and second components are compatible to be assembled as anapproved PP configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary PP component compatibilitydetermining system capable of implementing the process of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a computer system utilizable in aninformation retrieval system of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a smart tag coupled to a sensor.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a wearer passing an exemplary dataacquisition portal which may be used in some exemplary embodimentsutilized in the system of FIG. 1 and wearing a smart tagged RPE article.

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a smart tagged RPE including a portablereader.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of one exemplary embodiment of a process thatmay be performed according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of another exemplary embodiment of a processthat may be performed according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a component compatibility chart for use in determiningcompatibility of components for approved PP configurations thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure substantially reduces drawbacks and shortcomingsof known approaches in assembling components into approved PPconfigurations. More particularly, the present disclosure relates tomethods and systems for determining whether at least a first componentand a second component are compatible so as to be assembled into anapproved configuration responsive to being compared against at least apredetermined criterion regarding compatible PP configurations.

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a PP configuration compatibilitydetermining system 100, according to one exemplary embodiment of thepresent disclosure. The PP configuration compatibility determiningsystem 100 includes an information retrieval system 102 networked to acomputer system 150. The PP configuration compatibility determiningsystem 100 is utilized for implementing a process for determiningcompatibility of PP configurations, e.g., 120 and 220. The PPconfiguration 120 may comprise at least a first component of personalprotection equipment (PPE) 120 a and at least a second component ofpersonal protection equipment (PPE)110 a for use in combination to forman approved PP configuration based on at least one predeterminedcriterion. The PP configuration 220 may comprise at least a firstcomponent 220 b, at least a second component 210 b, and at least a thirdcomponent 240 b for use in combination to form an approved PPconfiguration based on at least one predetermined criterion. Theexemplary approved PP configurations may be used in or may in some casesconstitute PPE articles. One or more components suitable for use inexemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may also constitute orinclude a PPE article.

The components and PPE articles may be used in one or more workingenvironments 125 (only one is illustrated). Exemplary workingenvironments include, without limitation, paint shops, petrochemicalrefineries, mines, smelting facilities, pharmaceutical factories, or thelike. “Predetermined criterion or criteria” as the terms are utilized inthe present application refer to a set of rules, guidelines,regulations, recommendations, certifications, or the like that governsthe compatibility of combinations of articles and components forconfiguring at least one PP configuration which satisfies at least onepredetermined criterion. The rules, guidelines, regulations,recommendations, certifications, and the like may be promulgated fromany source, including business and/or governmental sources. Examples ofthe foregoing include, without limitation, the OSHA respiratorregulation that requires respirators be National Institute forOccupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) approved, and must be used incompliance with the conditions of (NIOSH) certification. Clearly, ifnot, that would be in violation of appropriate rules and regulations.Besides complying with NIOSH certifications, OSHA requires third-partyapproval from other entities, such as Underwriter Laboratories forelectrical products in the workplace. Still other OSHA PPE rules andregulations require hard hats, safety glasses, and safety footwear meetspecific ANSI certification standards. Also, companies using PPEarticles have the responsibility for ensuring compliance with theappropriate rules, regulations, recommendations, and certifications.Facilities are sometimes allowed to determine their own predeterminedcriteria based on the particulars of their work environment, PPEarticles and components, and the pertinent rules and regulations thatgovern the former. The present disclosure is not limited to OSHA rulesand regulations, but any and all other appropriate rules andregulations.

In an illustrated exemplary embodiment, the PPE article may be anarticle of respiratory protective equipment (RPE). The PPE article maybe assembled into a configuration or combination with one or morecomponents used in conjunction with the PPE article. For example, an RPEarticle may be a 3M Air-Mate or High Efficiency (HE) Belt-MountedPowered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) System that includes Air FilterUnit 520-03-63R01, battery pack 007-00-15R01, HE filter 451-02-01R01,waist belt nylon 021-41-01R01 and Airflo indicator 021-14-00R01. Othercomponents used with this HEPA PAPR assembly are headgear as Head CoverBE-12 Tychem QC, breathing tube as BE-224, and battery charger such assingle battery charger 520-0373. The present disclosure is not limitedby any combination or configurations, but envisions all suitablecombinations or configurations intended to satisfy predeterminedequipment compatibility criteria. Known types of PPE articles include,without limitation, protective eyewear, such as visors, goggles, filtersor shields, protective headwear, such as hard hats, hoods or helmets,hearing protection, protective shoes, protective gloves, otherprotective clothing, such as coveralls and aprons, protective articles,such as sensors, safety tools, detectors, global positioning devices,mining cap lamps and any other suitable gear. Known types of componentsinclude, without limitation, a nose piece, a valve cover, a strapassembly, a face piece, a hood, a helmet, a motor, a hose, a filter of awelding helmet, a visor, power supply, a lighting mechanism, such as amining-cap lamp, etc.

In one exemplary embodiment, the compatibility determining system 100includes one or more smart tags 130 a, 130 b, 230 b, 230 d, 250 b; oneor more data acquiring devices 140 a-n (collectively, 140) that acquiredata from the smart tags; and, one or more sensors 145 a-n(collectively, 145) that, as will be described, sense for variables thatare related to usage of the PPE article and component(s) being tracked.Given the number of different kinds of smart tags, data acquiringdevices, and sensors that can be used, there exists a large number ofcombinations for the system 100 that can be constructed depending on thePPE articles and components and the appropriate predetermined criterionagainst which they will be evaluated. Accordingly, the exemplary system100 is but one of many different and suitable types.

The present disclosure contemplates use of any suitable smart tag knownin the art. All suitable types of components and PPE articles areenvisioned to be tagged either directly or indirectly with a smart tag.In one exemplary embodiment, an appropriate smart tag is directlyattached to the PPE article, such as an article of RPE, and/or itsselected components, such as a filter cartridge and a battery.

Essentially, a smart tag is a data carrier that carries data accessibleby suitable methods, including, but not limited to, electronic, optical,or other wireless technology. Data on a smart tag may, typically, atleast, include tag identification information, such as identificationnumbers (e.g., serial number and model number). In addition, the smarttag may contain other information relating to the components andarticles of PPE, such as the type of component and/or article used;historical information relating to the component and article,information about the user (who used it, where it was used, under whatcondition it was used, etc.) maintenance or other type of processing;information about who wrote information onto the smart tag; anyrequirements relating to the article and its associated component(s),and/or their use, whether any such requirements have been satisfied,such as any certifications obtained, and any other useful information,such as change-out history, or the working environment. Also,information regarding the user of the component and article of PPE maybe on the smart tag; such as, medical information, information relatingto fit-testing, training, job responsibilities, seniority or experience,access privileges or any other information.

Smart tags include passive and active types. Generally, passive tags donot include an internal power source and the data carried thereby may beencoded at manufacture. Data information may be acquired from a passivesmart tag by, for example, radio frequency, microwave, infrared, orother wireless modes; or by optical readers or other appropriateelectronic or optical technology. One type of passive smart tag is radiofrequency identification (RFID) tag, wherein a transponder carriesread-only data. Another type of passive smart tags may be rewritable.RFID technology is known and understood by those skilled in the art and,hence, only a brief description is included herein for facilitatingunderstanding of the present disclosure. Passive RFID type smart tagsare typically provided in the form of small labels or the like thatinclude a coiled, etched or stamped antenna, a capacitor, and asubstrate on which the components are mounted or embedded. For somemetallic smart tags, the metallic portion itself may serve as theantenna. The RFID type smart tag may be embedded in or attached to thecomponents and PPE articles by any suitable approach. For example, thesmart tags may be joinable as by being adhered, fastened, sewn, frictionfitted, mechanically clipped, welded (e.g., ultrasonically) or molded,etc. onto or into the components and PPE articles. Besides passive RFIDsmart tags, other passive smart tags may include, without limitation,optical kinds including barcode and optical character recognitionsystems; electromagnetic systems; and acoustomagnetic systems.

On the other hand, active smart tags tend to carry their own internalpower source as well as data, and an appropriate antenna for allowingexchanging of their data. The internal power supply may include amicro-battery, a thin film battery, or the like. Active smart tags maybe reprogrammable and include, besides an antenna, a microchip toreceive and store additional information beyond the informationcontained in its fixed code. Active smart tags may exchange their datainformation with data acquiring and/or transmitting devices, such asincluding, without limitation, readers and/or writers, scanners, and/ordata receivers, such as wireless receivers. The exchange may beinitiated by the active smart tag itself once it finds a suitable ordesignated, reader, scanner, or receiver. The active smart tags maytransmit their data responsive to triggering or interrogating signals,they may actively transmit their data independent of such signals. Forinstance, the active smart tags may continuously or periodicallytransmit data to appropriate readers and/or writers, scanners, orreceivers. As noted, some active smart tags include the capability toreceive and store additional information beyond that contained by itsencoded data. Other kinds of active smart tags may be configured to berewritable. For instance, an active RFID smart tag may be rewritable, asby an RFID reader.

Other kinds of active smart tags include a real time location system(RTLS) smart tag. An RTLS smart tag is an active tag having atransmitter and a receiver and it communicates with a network accordingto a particular protocol. RTLS systems can work to determine theposition of the smart tag in a 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional space. Forexample, a RTLS smart tag generally uses one or both of the followingwireless location-based methods for determining the position of a smarttag or the object the tag is attached to.

The first is a Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA) method. In oneimplementation of this method, the smart tag will broadcast a signal tomultiple wireless receivers 140 at known locations. The time at whichthe signal is received by each receiver is measured, and a set ofequations can be used to determine the position of the smart tag.Examples of this system are a global positioning system (GPS) or asystem using low frequency radio transmitters that use the time intervalbetween radio signals (LORAN). Another example is an active smart tagused in a WiFi system that determines how long a signal takes to areceiver. Companies that use this principle for RTLS systems are AeroScout Inc., Redwood City, Calif.; Nano Tron Technologies, GmbH, Berlin,Germany; WhereNet, Santa Clara, Calif.; and, MultiSpectral Solutions,Inc., Germantown, Md.

A RTLS may also use a Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) method.This latter method requires tags or fixed transceivers to measure thereceived power (signal strength) of the incoming signals. Then, usingeither known variations of signal strength vs. distance fromtransmitters, or by measuring the signal strengths at various locationsand matching these measured strengths to the measured strengths,position can be determined. Companies that provide commerciallyavailable products using the RTLS system include Wavetrend, Fairfax Va.,and PanGo Networks, Framingham, Mass.

One example of an active smart tag suitable for use in an RTLS system isan Ekahau™ smart tag, which communicates with wireless receivers in awireless local area network (WLAN) through IEEE 802.11b and 802.11gstandards. The Ekahau™ smart tag is commercially available from Ekahau,Inc., Reston Va. and may be used in the present exemplary embodiment.Other examples of suitable smart tags may be provided, and includethose, such as described, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,853,303, which isincorporated herein.

As noted, the data from the smart tag may be acquired by data acquiringdevices 140, such as readers 140, readers/writers 140, scanners 140, orreceivers, such as wireless receivers 140, as well as other suitabledevices. A reader or scanner may include an antenna for transmitting atrigger signal to a smart tag and receiving a return signal from the tagcontaining information. The data acquiring devices 140 may be placed inany one or more of the critical spots of the process including but notlimited to the area where the component(s) 110 a, 120 a, 210 b, and PPEarticles 120 are assembled and/or handed out to the individual. In someexemplary embodiments, one or more data acquiring devices 140, such asreaders or scanner 140 are hand-held. For example, a receiver 140 may bea wireless node of a wireless local area network (WLAN) that may providean internet access point.

The readers 140 may be linked to a remote programmable electronic systemor computer 150 through the network 160. The programmable electronicsystem 150 includes functionalities that enable tracking usage of thePPE articles against at least a predetermined criterion. The readers maybe programmable electronic systems themselves.

Reference is made to FIG. 8 for illustrating one exemplary embodiment ofcompatibility criterion according to the present disclosure. Such acriterion may be represented in a component/configuration compatibilitychart 800 for a configuration of respirator components. These componentsare commercially available for a configuration of components availablefrom 3M Company, St. Paul, Minn. for its Breathe Easy™ 12 Systems. Itwill be appreciated that NIOSH provides approvals for individualcomponents and configurations for each manufacturer that seeks itsapproval for components and configurations. It will be understood thatin reading this chart, ‘X’ designates a NIOSH approval. Row 802identifies a NIOSH approved PP configuration of components. In theexemplary embodiment, the approved PP configuration of components 802includes respective ones of each different component type that forms theconfiguration. Individual ones of the different component types arelisted in columns 804-818 (i.e., alternate headgear—804, alternatebreathing tubes—806, blower—808, alternate filtercartridges/canisters—810, alternate power sources—812, alternatebelts—814, airflow indicator—816 and alternate accessories—818). Inregard to the latter component in the exemplary embodiment, an approvedPP configuration does not include accessories. Each of the differentcomponent types includes alternate versions of different models. Forexample, there are four (4) different headgear models, each with itsmodel number, listed in columns 804 a-d. For example, there are ten (10)different filter cartridges/canister types, each with its model number,listed in columns 810 a-j. If one component (e.g., 804) is not approvedor is not included in a configuration, then any such configuration(e.g., 802) is not NIOSH approved. Stated somewhat differently, allcomponents must be approved and all components of a configuration mustbe included for the latter to be considered an approved PPconfiguration.

In the exemplary embodiment, column 820 includes different NIOSHapproval numbers (e.g., TC-23-1181). These NIOSH approval numbers arelisted in rows 822 a-j. Column 824 provides a listing of differentprotections provided by each component that corresponds to a particularNIOSH number. The acronyms, of the kinds of protection, listed in column824 are defined in the list in Table 1, below. Column 826 provides alisting of cautions and limitations that are associated with each of theapproval numbers. Table 2, below, provides a definition associated witheach letter appearing in any of the rows.

TABLE 1 OV—organic vapor AM—ammonia CL—chlorine FM—formaldehydeHC—hydrogen chloride HF—hydrogen fluoride MA—methylamine SD—sulfurdioxide HE—high efficiency particulate air filter for poweredair-purifying respirators

TABLE 2 A—Not for use in atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percentoxygen. B—Not for use in atmospheres immediately dangerous to life orhealth. C—Do not exceed maximum use concentrations established byregulatory standards. F—Do not use powered air -purifying respirators ifairflow is less than four cfm (115 lpm) for tight fitting facepieces orsix cfm (170 lpm) for hoods and/or helmets. H—Follow establishedcartridge and canister change schedules or observe ELSI to ensure thatcartridge and canisters are replaced before break- through occurs.I—Contains electrical parts that have not been evaluated as an ignitionsource in flammable or explosive atmospheres by MSHA/NIOSH. J—Failure toproperly use and maintain this product could result in injury or death.L—Follow the manufacturer's User/s Instructions for changing cartridge,canister and/or filters. M—All approved respirators shall be selected,fitted, used, and maintained in accordance with MSHA, OSHA and otherapplicable standards. N—Never substitute, modify, add or omit parts. Useonly exact replace- ment parts in the configuration specified by themanufacturer. O—Refer to User's Instructions, and/or maintenance manualsfor informa- tion on use and maintenance of these respirators. P—NIOSHdoes not evaluate respirators as surgical masks.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-4, the reader 140 a may be stationed at theentrance of the work environment 125 and acquires relevant data of thewearer, component(s) 110, and the PPE article 120, such as at the startof the workday or shift and at the end of the work day or shift. Thereaders may be in several other locations, such as where thecomponent(s) are coupled to the PPE article or in any one or more othersuitable location. This information is sent to a database of thecomputer system 150 for the purposes which will be described.Alternatively or additionally, one or more readers 140 may be locatedwithin the actual work environment 125 so as to provide opportunitiesfor wearers obtaining readings in the work environment 125.Alternatively or additionally, a portable reader 140 may be utilized(see FIG. 5), such as where the component(s) and PPE articles are issuedprior to entering the work environment. A typical portable reader 140may have a display 132 and keypad 134 for data input and are wirelesslyconnected to the network 160. The portable reader 140 may be used whenthe tagged component(s) and PPE articles are in the work environment 125or at the end of a work shift. The portable reader may be part of aportable computer system. The present disclosure does not placelimitations on the locations or timing of reading of the taggedcomponent(s) and PPE articles.

Exemplary suitable sensors 145 of some exemplary embodiment may include,without limitation, measurement of the following analytes/parameters:electromagnetic radiation (such as thermal and visible), ionizingradiation, nuclear radiation, chemicals (such as liquids, solids,vapors, gases and mists/aerosols), biological analytes, particulates,noise, heat stress, motion, as well as others. The exemplary transducersmay be of the electrical or optoelectronic type. The sensors 145 may bemobile or stationary in the work environment and connected, as forexample, by wireless to the network. In the mobile mode, the sensors 145may be disposed on the PPE or on the component. The sensed informationdata is generally related to the risks in the work environment whichmight affect the appropriateness of the configurations of thecomponent(s) and PPE articles being tracked, as will be explained. Thedata, as noted, includes concentration levels, types of contaminants,presence or absence of contaminants, insufficient or no current to run acircuit of the component(s) and PPE article, inadequate filtering by thefiltering cartridge, insufficient or no battery power, breakthrough of achemical through a filter, or inoperable safety mechanisms. The data maybe stored in the database for subsequent reporting and/or communicationto a wearer and/or person responsible for issuing the configuredcomponents and PPE articles. The present disclosure is not limited bythese examples since what is sensed encompasses all known factors thatmay relate to the compatibility of the combination or configuration ofPPE articles and components.

Reference is made to FIG. 3 for illustrating a combination sensing andsmart device 300 that may be attached directly to an article of PPE (notshown). The sensing and smart device 300 includes a combination of asensing device 304, such as photo-ionization detector (PID), and a smarttag 302, such as an RTLS tag. The functionalities of the sensing deviceand the smart tag remain the same despite being physically coupledtogether. The combination sensing device 300 may also provide locationinformation that may be mapped to identify a location(s) in which theconcentration levels may change (e.g., spike). The smart tag 130 mayprovide location information that may be used to determine if aconfiguration is approved in one or more locations.

The network 160 may include, without limitation, a local-area network(LAN), wide area network (WAN), the internet, or a wireless network,such as a wireless local area network (WLAN). The programmableelectronic system 150 may represent any type of data processing system,computer system, programmable logic devices, or the like for processingthe data. The computer system 150 may include server computers, clientcomputers, PC-based servers, minicomputers, midrange computers,mainframe computers; or other suitable devices. In some exemplaryembodiments, the computer system 150 may include portable computersystems including laptops, handheld computer systems. In addition, thesystem 100 may include one or more local computer systems 170 located inthe work environment 125. As such, workers may be able to obtainpertinent data, for example, a real-time assessment of the condition ofthe work environment as it pertains to their PP configuration while inthe work environment 125. The local computer system 170 typicallyincludes portable computer systems including laptops, handheld computersystems. The local computer system 170 may also include other computersystems, such as, client computers, PC-based servers, minicomputers,midrange computers, mainframe computers; or other suitable devices.

With continued reference to FIG. 2, there is depicted a server computersystem 150. It is depicted as comprising at least one systeminterconnect bus 180 to which various components are coupled andcommunicate with each other. Coupled to the system interconnect bus 180is at least a single data processor unit 182, storage device 184, memorysuch as random access memory (RAM) 186, read only memory (ROM) 188, arelational database management system (DBMS) 189, and input/output (I/O)ports 191. The relational database is a computer database managementsystem 189 controlling the storing, updating, and retrieving of data todatabase files for use in tracking combinations of component(s) and PPconfigurations against the predetermined condition(s) or criteria underthe control of the applications to be described hereinafter. Thedatabase files contain all relevant information pertaining to theoperational parameters of the readers. Furthermore, one or more outputdevices 192 such as a display, as well as one or more user interfaceinput devices 194, such as a keyboard and/or pointing device isrespectively coupled to the I/O ports 191. In known fashion, the outputand input devices 192 and 194; respectively permit wearer interactionwith the computer system 150. The I/O port 191 typically includesvarious controllers (not shown) for each input device 194, such as akeyboard, mouse, joystick, and the like, as well as the output device192, such as an Ethernet network adapter, infrared device and display(not shown). The processor 182 controls the input device 194 whichprovides a user interface for allowing a wearer to access information,such as appropriateness of their combination of component(s) and PPconfigurations being worn.

The processor unit 182 may be any suitable processor and sends andreceives instructions and data to and from each of the computer system'scomponents that are coupled to the system interconnect bus 180 toperform system operations based upon the requirements of the computersystem's operating system (OS) 196, and other specialized applicationprograms 198 a-198 n (collectively 198).

The ROM 188 typically controls basic hardware operations. The storagedevice 184 may be a permanent storage medium, such as a hard disk,CD-ROM, tape, or the like, which stores the operating system 196 and thespecialized applications programs 198. The RAM 186 is volatile memory.The contents of the RAM 186 may be retrieved from the storage device 184as required. Illustratively, the RAM 186 is shown with the operatingsystem 196 and application programs 198 concurrently stored therein. Theprogram code of the operating system 196 and/or application programs 198is sent to the RAM 186 for temporary storage and subsequent execution bythe processor 182. Additionally, the RAM 186 is capable of storing filesfrom the operating system 196, as well as files from one or moreapplication programs.

An information retrieval system application program(s) 198 a is onetypically utilized for controlling operations of the informationretrieval system 102 including the functionalities described herein withrespect to the smart tags, data acquiring devices 140, and sensors 145.Provision is made for a suitable database management system application198 b to run the database 189 in a manner consistent with the presentdisclosure. Also, provision is made for a predetermined configurationscompatibility application 198 c. This may, in some cases, include atable or algorithm correlating the components and PP configurations toapproved PP configurations based on, for example, the noted governmentapproved guidelines. Against these tables or algorithms, determinationsare made as to whether configurations of the components and PPconfigurations satisfy the predetermined criterion relating to approvedPP configurations. Also, the configuration compatibility application maydetermine if an approved PP configuration is approved for a particularworker that is about to use it, as well as other PP articles. Theconfiguration compatibility application 198 c is updatable based onnewer issued rules and regulations or changed circumstances, such asadditional risks in the work environment. Updated versions ofapplications may be acquired from any source and by any suitable meansincluding through the internet or downloadable from the network. Datafrom the tagged components and articles, as well as input informationfrom the user through a suitable input data interface regarding risks inthe work environment, assists in determining which predeterminedcriteria are to be used.

A report generating application 198 d is provided that may generatereports containing a variety of data in different reporting formatstailored for purposes including those described below responsive to itsoperation or responsive to requests by users of the system. Thesereports may be generated to allow, for example, workers, supervisors,health professionals access to a wide variety of information includingthe history and status of components and articles; medical informationof workers, information relating to fit-testing of workers, as well as aworker's training, job responsibilities, seniority or experience, accessprivileges. All other suitable information may be reported on includingany other information relating to servicing, maintenance, change-out, aswell as other information regarding of component(s) and PPconfigurations.

The PP configuration compatibility determining application 198 ndetermines whether at least a first component and at least a secondcomponent are compatible so as to be assembled in an approved PPconfiguration. The PP configuration compatibility determiningapplication 198 n of the present disclosure enables determining thecompatibility of combinations of tagged component(s) of a configurationagainst at least a predetermined criterion relating to the approvedconfiguration of components for a particular type of PPE article, suchas provided by the application 198(c). Such determinations may followretrieval of smart tag data information logged into the database aftersuch data was acquired from the smart tags. The determination may beresponsive to processing the noted acquired data against thepredetermined criterion, such as expressed in the exemplarycompatibility chart. The present exemplary embodiment also contemplatessupport for determinations regarding whether the approved PPconfiguration is compatible with other PP configurations, worker(s) orlocation(s).

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which the compatibilitydetermining process 600 may be performed by the PP configurationcompatibility determining system 100. The compatibility determiningprocess 600 may commence in a Components For PP Article Selected AndAssembled block 610. Essentially, one or more components for use inassembling the PP configuration, i.e., a configuration of componentsadapted to be used in the work environment may be gathered from anysuitable source, such as from equipment storage areas (not shown).Selection of all the components to be used in combination for anapproved PP configuration may be made through any known procedure,typically by the worker or a health supervisor following knownprocedures or the like. In one exemplary embodiment, the worker mayselect the components based on the type of hazard of the workplace thatthe worker will be exposed. Additionally or alternatively, a worker mayinput the type of PPE article for which a particular configuration ofcomponents needs to be evaluated to determine whether it is an approvedPP configuration. In one exemplary embodiment, a library systemapplication may be modified to check for a configuration of componentsby checking to see if sets of components to belong to a particularconfiguration. In another exemplary embodiment, as will be described, ifa person is not compatible with an approved PP configuration, then adetermination may be made that the person is not compatible to theapproved PP configuration. Because there are different models for eachof the PP configurations and components (e.g. filter cartridge, battery,breathing tube, hose, etc.) possibilities exist for them not beingcompatible with each other. As noted, probabilities exist that theselected and assembled configuration may not satisfy the predeterminedcriterion even though seemingly appropriate components were selected andassembled. However, according to the present disclosure suchpossibilities are substantially reduced or eliminated.

The compatibility determining process 600 may proceed to a Retrieve TagInformation block 620, whereat a worker may input information, regardingthe PPE article and the associated components into the database as wellas his/her own identification, such as through a badge. As noted, thereis no limit on the information that may be provided by the smart tags orthe worker. The smart tag data may be acquired by any one or more of thedata acquiring devices 140. The data acquiring devices 140 may be atfixed locations, such as prior to entering the work environment 125, orby portable devices at any location. Optionally, in order to identifythe wearer, the latter may present his/her badge to an appropriate dataacquiring device 140. One or more smart tags or badge may also includeother data regarding the wearer, such as medical, fit test, jobdescription, seniority, training, and other qualifications. As such, adetermination may be made as to whether or not the worker has beenapproved as compatible, i.e., approved to use a certain PPconfiguration. The retrieved data is forwarded to the database of thecomputer system, and, if operational, the local computer system. In someembodiments, the data may include the identification of an article,date, and or timestamp, as well as the location of the data acquiringdevice. The present disclosure envisions that the retrieve taginformation may occur more than once and at any suitable number ofpoints in the determining process.

The compatibility determining process 600 may proceed to RetrieveCriteria block 630, whereat the established a predetermined criteriaapplication 198 c retrieves at least one appropriate predeterminedcriterion (or criteria) from the database for the appropriate PPconfigurations and their respective associated components andconfigurations of components. The retrieval may be based on any one ormore of retrieved tag information, information inputted by the workerthough a data input device as to the hazard(s) that he/she will beexposed to or a workplace sensor reading. The retrieval may be based onselections according to the component being tracked or inputtedinformation. As noted, the predetermined criterion may be obtained frommany different sources that provide guidance on the proper configuringof the combinations of PP configurations and components. In oneexemplary embodiment, the component/configuration compatibility chart800 may be selected. In other exemplary embodiments, other predeterminedcriteria may be used, such as other charts, tables, algorithms or thelike having correlations of, for example, serial and model numbersexisting between approved combinations of PP configurations andcomponents. Each of the RPE article and the components that are selectedand assembled at the block 610 will be assessed against thepredetermined criterion.

In this exemplary embodiment, model BE-12 headgear component listed incolumn 804 a has an approval number TC 23-1181 (col. 822 a) indicatingthat it provides for protection with organic vapors listed in column 824with the cautions and limitations listed in column 826. The model BE-12headgear component may be used with any of the breathing tubes listed incolumns 806 a-b, the blower component 808, only the filtercartridges/canister component model 456-00-01 listed in column 810 a;the power source components 812 b-d, but not model 520-0115 R1—812 a;and any of the belt models listed in columns 814 a-c; airflow indicator816; and any of the accessory models listed in columns 818 a-d. If modelBE-12 is used with a filter cartridge/canister component other than themodel listed in column 810 a, then such a component would not beapproved and a resulting configuration would not be approved. On theother hand, if a workplace had ammonia and methylamine, then the modelBE-12 must have a TC23-1187 approval number. With such an approvalnumber this model could be used with all the same components, as in theprevious example, but only the approved filter cartridge/canistercomponent in column 810 b. All other filter cartridge/canistercomponents would not be approved as well as any configuration includingthem.

The compatibility determining process 600 may further include a Reportblock 640 that follows the Retrieve Criteria block 630 under the controlof the reporting application 198 b. The Report block 640 is operable forgenerating one or more reports relevant to a wide variety of subjectsincluding, but not limited to, the selected and assembled article andcomponents, the workers, acquired and sensed data, the work environment,and other pertinent information, as well as histories thereof.Typically, the Report block 640 may generate a report in a formatacceptable by an entity requesting the report, for example, the businessentity using the system 100, or a governmental agency, such as OSHA,responsive to requests. These reports may be generated to allow, forexample, workers, supervisors, health professionals access to a widevariety of information including the history and status of componentsand articles; medical information of workers, information relating tofit-testing of workers, as well as a worker's training, jobresponsibilities, seniority or experience, access privileges. All othersuitable information may be reported on including any other informationrelating to servicing, maintenance, change-out, as well as otherinformation regarding of component(s) and PP configurations.

While the Report block 640 follows Retrieve Criteria block 630, it willbe appreciated that reports may be generated at any one or more pointsin the process. The reports may be generated by requests of the workersor other persons of interest or even responsive to requests by thegovernment. The reports generated may be transmitted across the internetas well. There is no time limit to generating the reports.

The compatibility determining process 600 then may proceed to aDetermine Compatibility of Configuration block 650. The DetermineCompatibility of Configuration block 650 may be under the control of thecompatibility determining application. As such, the data acquired fromthe components, such as model numbers, is compared to the predeterminedcriterion. In this exemplary embodiment, the data is compared to thecomponent/configuration compatibility chart 800 to determine if thecomponents are approved based on the configuration of the chart. Inother exemplary embodiment, other pertinent information, such asinformation regarding the components, the article of PPE, the user orthe work environment will be processed to determine if such combinationsatisfies a predetermined criterion, which as noted was retrieved in theRetrieve Predetermined Criterion block 630. The compatibilitydetermining application acts to store the determinations made in theDetermine Compatibility of Configuration block 650 as well ascommunicate such information in order to notify appropriate persons, acomputer system, or the like as to the determinations made. If theactual combination, when compared to the predetermined criterion, failsto find an approved PP configuration then a negative determination (i.e.No) is made. This may occur when a component to be used is comparedagainst the chart 800, as by serial number and/or a model number, todetermine if the one component to be used is correlated to the serialnumber or model number of one or more approved components. If thedecision is negative, the decision may be communicated and the process600 returns to the Select and Assemble Components block 610, whereat anew component(s) may be selected and assembled and the process repeated.Alternatively, if all the noted components are compatible with eachother and/or the article of PPE, then a positive determination (i.e.,Yes) is made. The positive determination means that the taggedcombination or configuration includes components that are have beenmatched as by for example, serial number, model number or some otherdata as being compatible. As noted, these determinations are stored insuitable memory for subsequent processing. The compatibility determiningapplication also may take into account who the worker is, or thelocation of the combination of approved components, in order todetermine if the combination may operate with such a worker, or in sucha location.

The compatibility determining process 600 may include a Communicateblock 660, whereat compatibility or non-compatibility is communicated,using any known communication methodology, to appropriate persons, orreporting entities. Such a communication may be transmitted to the user,the database, the user's supervisor, industrial hygienist or otherappropriate personnel. The process of this block may be occurring atother times. In one exemplary embodiment, such communications may bemade as a message to display screen of the computer or to a personaldigital assistant (PDA), pager, cell phone, mobile computing device orthe like. It will be appreciated other suitable software applicationsmay be used to provide such communication. Also in other exemplaryembodiments, such communications may include an alarm, message oraudible signal to appropriate persons including the user and/orsupervisor. The compatibility determining process 600 may communicateand identify one or more missing components 110 for the proper systemcompatibility.

The compatibility determining process 600 may optionally proceed to theSense In Work Environment block 670 to determine if conditions of thework environment change such that a new or different configuration isrequired to be worn by the worker. In the Sense In Work Environmentblock 670, one or more sensors, like the PID sensor 145, is operable forproviding current or real-time sensed data regarding currentconcentration levels of contaminant vapors (e.g., benzene) in the workenvironment 125. This sensor data is forwarded to the database. Thecompatibility determining process 600 may proceed to the Update Riskblock 680. In the Update Risk block 680, the data from the sensor 145,stored in the database, under control of the determining application 198n, is acted upon by the predetermined configuration compatibilityapplication 198 c. If an update is necessary because the originalconfiguration of components no longer provides an approved PPconfiguration, such as when a new, different or additional article ofPPE or its component is required because of a sensed additionalhazardous material being sensed in the Sense In Work Environment block670, the process may proceed back to the Components For PP ArticleSelected and Assembled block 610. At the block 610, a new combination ofcomponents may be selected and assembled. Also, based on the sensed dataa different predetermined criterion (e.g. a different set of compatiblecomponents) may be selected as the predetermined criterion governingcompatibility. As such, this enhances the overall advantages provided bythe present disclosure. Optionally, the process 600 may proceed to aProcess Article block 690, for example, if the article or any of itscomponents need to be processed based on a result of the determination.The present disclosure envisions that a wide variety of processes may beperformed to handle the components and PP configurations forming the PParticle, such as disposal, cleaning, refurbishing, or the like. A widevariety of processing includes, but is not limited to, servicing,maintaining, or decontaminating the articles.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which the compatibilitydetermining process 700 may be performed by the PP configurationcompatibility determining system 100. In this exemplary embodiment, in aWorker goes to storage of PPE components block 710, a maintenancepersonnel/worker is ready to assemble or configure at least a first andsecond component that may be used in formation of a PPE article. InWorker selects components/Worker assembles required PPE block 720, theworker assembles the components thought to be appropriate for anapproved configuration. This may be done at any point of assembly of thecomponents, such as the location where the components are stored.Assembly into a PPE configuration may be done by any known methodology.The compatibility determining process 700 then proceeds to Determinewhether PPE is an approved configuration block 730. This block 730 is acombination of the process blocks 630, 640 and 650 noted above in FIG.6. As such, the description of the process in these blocks isincorporated herein. As such, if the determination is affirmative thatthe PPE is an approved configuration, then PPE Ready to be Used block740 follows, whereat the user may proceed to the work environment. Ifdetermination in block 730 is negative that the PPE is not approved,then a worker/maintenance personnel reconfigures the PPE in block 750.In Worker inputs information on environmental hazards block 760, asensor may be used to input information on the environment in which anapproved PPE configuration is used. The worker may also input otherinformation that pertains to the approved configuration and whether thelatter is suitable for a work environment. Such other information mayrelate to location(s), worker, and other PP configurations. A variety ofknown and suitable approaches, such as a computer system or PDA can beused to communicate such information.

EXAMPLES

The following examples are prophetic examples using the principles ofthe present disclosure.

Example 1—Right Battery for Powered Air Purifying Respirator

Maintenance personnel or worker can request, secure, or buy differentbattery components for different respirator systems. Currently, a person(maintenance PPE personnel, industrial hygienist, worker, productdeveloper, battery management person) checks and determines that thebattery component is suitable or approved for organic vapors withparticulate (HEPA) protection.

The PP configuration of this example may be a 3M Breathe Easy™Belt-Mounted Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR's) that iscommercially available from 3M Company, St. Paul, Minn. for protectionagainst gases, vapor and/or particles. An approved PP configuration maycomprise: headgear, cartridge, breathing tube, blower, batteries (e.g.,NiCd or lithium), flow meter, battery chargers, waist belts, andfilter/cartridges/canisters. Each of these components may have attachedto it (by adhesive, mechanical fastener, clips, etc.) a smart tagcontaining identification of the component. It can also containinformation on service life or shelf life.

In this example, a worker or maintenance personnel is preparing a RPEfor an environment where organic vapor (OV) and particulate (HE)protection is required. The noted environment of this example mayrequire use of components having a NIOSH TC 23C-1184 approval number(see, FIG. 8). In this example, a comparison may be made to acompatibility chart 800, for the approved PP configuration andcomponents. The worker or maintenance personnel uses the compatibilitydetermining process 600 to assess the RPE. For a respiratory system tobe approved, the battery component must have a NIOSH TC 23C-1184approval number. The worker assembles an RPE assembly whose taggedcomponents are headgear BE-12, breathing tube 520-01-80R01, blower022-00-03, canister 456-00-01, the power source BP-15, the belt520-02-23 and the airflow indicator 520-01-21, and proceeds to use thecompatibility determining process 600 to assess RPE compatibility. Thecompatibility determining process 600 issues a “yes” or “approvedassembly” communication. As noted in FIG. 8, battery BP-15 has the NIOSHapproval number. Then, the worker assembles another RPE whose taggedcomponents are headgear BE-12, breathing tube 520-01-80R01, blower022-00-03, canister 456-00-01, the power source BP-17IS, the belt520-02-23 and the airflow indicator 520-01-21. For this RPE, thecompatibility determining process 600 issues a “no” or “non-approvedassembly” communication. Hence, battery component BP-17IS is not a NIOSHapproved for use in a respirator system in the noted environment.

The process 600 of the present disclosure may be utilized to scan eachsmart tag of each component and make a determination of whether thecomponents form an approved PP configuration. The system may then notifythe appropriate personnel of the determination, for example, bydisplaying a message on a screen of a computer as noted above.

Example 2—Right Breathing Tube for Respiratory Protection System

This example determines whether a breathing tube in the configured PPEcombination is an approved breathing tube. The tube may be (e.g., tube15-0099-10) only approved with an Adflo™ blower that is commerciallyavailable from 3M Company, St. Paul, Minn. Maintenance personnel couldwrongly select another blower and configure the system improperly. Themistake can only be detected by a knowledgeable person. The presentdisclosure may acquire data from smart tags attached to breathing tubesand Adflow™ blower and determine whether the breathing tube is theproper one for that particular blower. In this example, reference wouldbe made to a component/configuration compatibility chart that may besimilar to chart 800. If both the breathing tube and blower are approvedcomponents as indicated by the chart, such will be determined bycomparing, for example, their model numbers to the appropriate chart forthe particular configuration being evaluated. Appropriate personnel maybe notified of the determination, for example, by displaying a messageon a screen of a computer. Accordingly, maintenance personnel will beable to make a quick and accurate determination of the assembledconfiguration is approved or meets the predetermined criterion.

Example 3—Right Cartridge for Given Hazardous Environment

Maintenance personnel or worker can request, secure, or buy differentcartridges for the purifying respirators. In this example, maintenancepersonnel input the type of hazard environment that the worker will beexposed. The retrieve predetermined criteria application providespredetermined criteria that indicates which cartridges are approved fora respiratory system in the noted environment. If the input informationindicates that organic vapors and particulate hazards (OV) exist in thework environment, then all components should have a NIOSH TC 23C-1184approval number. From FIG. 8, the only cartridges having model number450-00-01 are approved. Accordingly, other cartridges with differentmodel numbers will not be approved. The results of such determinationsmay be logged into the database and communicated to the worker or thelike as noted above.

It will be appreciated that numerous and varied other arrangements maybe readily devised in accordance with these principles by those skilledin the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventionas claimed.

Although the methods and system of the present disclosure have beendescribed with referent to specific exemplary embodiments, those ofordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that changes andmodifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit andscope of the present invention.

1. (canceled)
 2. A system comprising: first article of PPE comprising afirst component, the first article of PPE configured with a first smarttag that stores first data; a second article of PPE comprising a secondcomponent, wherein the second component of the second article of PPE isdifferent from the first component of the first article of PPE; and acomputing device configured to: select the first data that correspondsto the first article of PPE comprising the first component and selectsecond data that corresponds to the second article of PPE comprising thesecond component; determine whether the first article of PPE comprisingthe first component is compatible with the second article of PPEcomprising the second component as a combination, wherein compatibilityis based at least in part on a determination whether a predeterminedcriterion is satisfied that defines, for a work environment that has atleast one condition, an approved combination to be used together,wherein the approved combination includes articles of PPE that have beenidentified by at least one identifier or type as being compatible withrespect to the work environment; and perform at least one operation thatis based at least in part on whether the first article of PPE comprisingthe first component is compatible with the second article of PPEcomprising the second component.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein toperform the at least one operation that is based at least in part onwhether the first article of PPE is compatible with the second articleof PPE, the computing device is configured to perform an operationcomprising at least one of: communicate information that based at leastin part on whether the first article of PPE is compatible with thesecond article of PPE or output information that based at least in parton whether the first article of PPE is compatible with the secondarticle of PPE.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein to output informationthat is based at least in part on whether the first article of PPE iscompatible with the second article of PPE, the computing device isconfigured to output for display a message that is based at least inpart on whether the first article of PPE is compatible with the secondarticle of PPE.
 5. The system of claim 2, wherein the first or secondarticle of PPE is at least one of a respiratory protection system, andwherein the first and the second components comprise two or more of:headgear, cartridge, breathing tube, blower, battery, flow meter,battery charge, waist belt, filter, and canister.
 6. The system of claim2, wherein one or more of the first and second data include at leastmodel or serial number information of the corresponding first and secondarticles of PPE.
 7. The system of claim 2, further including: a thirdarticle of PPE with a smart tag storing third data, wherein thecomputing device is further configured to acquire the third data, andwherein the computing device is further configured to process theacquired third data against the predetermined criterion and to determinewhether the third article of PPE is compatible with the combination ofthe first article of PPE and the second article of PPE.
 8. The system ofclaim 2, wherein one or more of the first and second data correspond toa worker.
 9. The system of claim 2, wherein one or more of the first andsecond data correspond to location.
 10. A computing device comprising:one or more computer processors; and a memory comprising instructionsthat when executed by the one or more computer processors cause the oneor more computer processors to: select first data that corresponds to afirst article of PPE comprising a first component and select second datathat corresponds to a second particle of PPE comprising a secondcomponent, wherein the second component of the second article of PPE isdifferent from the first component of the first article of PPE;determine whether the first article of PPE comprising the firstcomponent is compatible with the second article of PPE comprising thesecond component as a combination, wherein compatibility is based atleast in part on a determination whether a predetermined criterion issatisfied that defines, for a work environment that has at least onecondition, an approved combination to be used together, wherein theapproved combination includes articles of PPE that have been identifiedby at least one identifier or type as being compatible with respect tothe work environment; and perform at least one operation that is basedat least in part on whether the first article of PPE comprising thefirst component is compatible with the second article of PPE comprisingthe second component.
 11. The computing device of claim 10, wherein toperform the at least one operation that is based at least in part onwhether the first article of PPE is compatible with the second articleof PPE, the memory comprises instructions that when executed by the oneor more computer processors cause the one or more computer processors tocommunicate information that is based at least in part on whether thefirst article of PPE is compatible with the second article of PPE oroutput information that is based at least in part on whether the firstarticle of PPE is compatible with the second article of PPE.
 12. Thecomputing device of claim 11, wherein to output information that basedat least in part on whether the first article of PPE is compatible withthe second article of PPE, the memory comprises instructions that whenexecuted by the one or more computer processors cause the one or morecomputer processors to output for display a message that is based atleast in part on whether the first article of PPE is compatible with thesecond article of PPE.
 13. The computing device of claim 10, wherein thefirst or second article of PPE is at least one of a respiratoryprotection system, and wherein the first and the second componentscomprise two or more of: headgear, cartridge, breathing tube, blower,battery, flow meter, battery charge, waist belt, filter, and canister.14. The computing device of claim 10, wherein one or more of first dataassociated with the first article of PPE or second data associated withthe second article of PPE correspond to a worker.
 15. A methodcomprising: selecting a first article of PPE comprising a firstcomponent; selecting a second article of PPE comprising a secondcomponent; determining whether the first article of PPE comprising thefirst component is compatible with the second article of PPE comprisinga second component as a combination, wherein compatibility is based atleast in part on determining whether a predetermined criterion issatisfied that defines, for a work environment that has at least onecondition, an approved combination to be used together, wherein theapproved combination includes articles of PPE that have been identifiedby at least one identifier or type as being compatible with respect tothe work environment; and performing at least one action that is basedat least in part on whether the first article of PPE comprising thefirst component is compatible with the second article of PPE comprisingthe second component.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein performing theat least one action that is based at least in part on whether the firstarticle of PPE is compatible with the second article of PPE comprises atleast one of communicating information that based at least in part onwhether the first article of PPE is compatible with the second articleof PPE or outputting information that based at least in part on whetherthe first article of PPE is compatible with the second article of PPE.17. The method of claim 16, wherein outputting information that is basedat least in part on whether the first article of PPE is compatible withthe second article of PPE comprises outputting for display a messagethat is based at least in part on whether the first article of PPE iscompatible with the second article of PPE.
 18. The method of claim 15,wherein the first or second article of PPE is at least one of arespiratory protection system, and wherein the first and the secondcomponents comprise two or more of: headgear, cartridge, breathing tube,blower, battery, flow meter, battery charge, waist belt, filter, andcanister.
 19. The method of claim 15, wherein one or more of first dataassociated with the first article of PPE or second data associated withthe second article of PPE correspond to a worker.
 20. The system ofclaim 15, wherein one or more of first data associated with the firstarticle of PPE or second data associated with the second article of PPEcorrespond to location.